Business Development Manager

Company Description

Aquaano, an India-based company, offers an innovative model of providing free drinking water funded by advertisements printed on water bottle packaging. As an advertising and marketing company, Aquaano specialises in selling ad space on these bottles. A portion of the revenue is donated to charitable causes, addressing water scarcity and funding initiatives such as digging borewells to improve access to clean water.

Join us in our mission to make hydration free and advertising purposeful.

Role Description

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Business Development Manager to spearhead client acquisition and drive strategic partnerships for our innovative outdoor advertising platform. This role is crucial in expanding our client base by onboarding forward-thinking brands that align with our mission of combining impactful marketing with social responsibility.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in B2B sales, excellent relationship-building skills, and the ability to communicate the unique value proposition of ethical advertising solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Client Acquisition & Business Development

* Develop strategic partnerships with companies across industries, including FMCG, technology, healthcare, financial services, startups, and lifestyle brands

* Create and present tailored advertising solutions that emphasise social responsibility and brand impact

* Build relationships with marketing decision-makers, brand managers, and advertising agencies

* Achieve monthly and quarterly client acquisition targets

Strategic Planning & Market Development

* Conduct market research to identify new business opportunities and industry trends

* Develop and implement business development strategies focused on sustainable growth

* Analyse competitor activities and market positioning in the outdoor advertising space

* Create compelling proposals and presentations showcasing ROI and social impact metrics

Relationship Management

* Build and maintain long-term relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders

* Collaborate with internal teams (operations, marketing, finance) to ensure seamless client onboarding

* Provide ongoing account management support to ensure client satisfaction and retention

* Represent Aquaano at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities

Sales Process Management

* Manage the complete sales cycle from lead generation to contract signing

* Negotiate contract terms and pricing structures

* Prepare and review sales contracts, ensuring adherence to company guidelines

* Maintain accurate records in the CRM system and provide regular sales reports

* Track and analyse sales metrics to optimise conversion rates

Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales, or related field

* 3-5 years of proven experience in B2B sales, business development, or account management

* Prior experience in advertising, media sales, or the outdoor advertising industry is preferred

* Startup experience or ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Skills & Competencies

* Sales Expertise: Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets

* Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present to C-level executives

* Relationship Building: Strong networking abilities and relationship management skills

* Strategic Thinking: Ability to understand client needs and develop customised solutions

* Negotiation: Strong negotiation and contract management capabilities

* Technology Proficiency: Experience with CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and sales analytics tools

Personal Attributes

* Results-oriented with a hunger for achieving and exceeding targets

* Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision

* Adaptable and comfortable with ambiguity in a startup environment

* Passionate about social impact and sustainable business practices

* Excellent organisational and time management skills

* Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

What We Offer

Compensation & Benefits

* Competitive base salary with attractive commission structure

* Performance-based incentives and bonuses

Growth Opportunities

* Opportunity to build and lead the sales team as we scale

* Direct impact on company growth and market expansion

* Professional development and training opportunities

* Flexible working arrangements

Mission-Driven Work

* Be part of a meaningful mission that combines business success with social impact

* Work with innovative technology and a unique business model

* Contribute to solving urban water accessibility challenges

* Build partnerships with brands that share our values

Location & Travel

* Primary Location: Hi-Tech City, Hyderabad, Telangana

* Hybrid working model with flexibility for remote work

We're looking for someone who:

* Has successfully sold B2B services or advertising solutions to corporate clients

* Understands brand marketing challenges and can position our solution effectively

* Is passionate about social entrepreneurship and sustainable business models

* Can work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams

* Has experience working with marketing agencies, brand managers, or advertising decision-makers

* Is excited about building something from the ground up in a startup environment

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

1. Updated resume highlighting relevant sales achievements

2. Cover letter explaining why you're passionate about our mission

3. Portfolio of successful client acquisition examples (if available)

• To Apply: Send your application to [careers@aquaano.com] with the subject line "BDM Application - [Your Name]"